Colorado River (02:33)

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Its use as a source of water has caused so many changes to the river that it no longer reaches the ocean. Experts are working to bring life and water back to its estuary.

Colorado River and the Rockies (05:26)

The river begins with snowmelt in the Rocky Mountains. Parts of the river spread into man-made lakes that supply millions of people with water. Hoover Dam created Lake Mead, which is suffering from low levels.

Colorado River and Water usage (04:08)

The population of Las Vegas has been increasing. Residents' water usage is strictly regulated, and water inceptors monitor neighborhoods.

Colorado River and Desert Gardens (06:22)

The city of Las Vegas encourages residents to choose gardens and lawns that fit in the desert climate. Landscape architect Amy Zeldenrust specializes in creating desert gardens.

Colorado River and Golf Courses (02:30)

Las Vegas has over 50 golf courses. Some use reclaimed water for less traveled parts of the course; reclaimed water is cheaper than potable water.

Colorado River and Water Treatment (03:06)

Las Vegas uses large water treatment plants that recycle as much water as possible. The recycled water goes through the Las Vegas Wash before returning to Lake Mead.

Colorado River and Farming (08:47)

Wetlands have a variety of wildlife where the river and desert meet. The Imperial Dam channels off the Colorado and provides water to farmers and ranchers in southern Arizona.

Colorado River and Yuma Valley (03:10)

Western American settlers began farming in the valley in 1902. The area has the oldest water rights to the Colorado River, which comes with many advantages.

Colorado River and Morelos Dam (07:26)

The dam channels off the last of the river for Mexican farmers, severing it from its estuary. Seawater from the Gulf of California flows into the estuary and coats the land with a salt crust. The dam was opened for eight weeks in 2018.

Colorado River in Mexico (08:13)

Conservationists wanting to restore the riverbed bought and leased water rights from Mexican farmers and a wastewater plant. The opening of the Morelos Dam and their work has caused animal and plant life to return to the area.

Credits: The Colorado: A River in Search of its Estuary (00:26)

Credits: The Colorado: A River in Search of its Estuary